Meet your new robotic siblings! Across the Chinese mainland, lifelike bionic robots are moving beyond factories and labs to become cherished household companions. CGTN’s Caroline Wu recently explored this heartwarming tech revolution with designer Tan Yijing, whose team creates robots that ‘blink, smile, and respond like family’.
🔍 Why it’s trending: Unlike clunky AI assistants, these humanoid bots cook congee, tutor kids in math, and even remind grandparents to take meds. ‘We’re coding empathy,’ Tan explains, showing a prototype that adapts its voice tone based on users’ moods detected via facial recognition.
🏡 Real-life impact: Over 50,000 units have been adopted this year alone, with families praising their role in easing eldercare pressures. One Beijing resident shared: ‘My kids work abroad – but “Xiao Ming” plays chess with Mom daily. She calls it her ‘second grandson’.’
🌐 Global implications: While currently focused on domestic needs, Tan hints at future models for cross-cultural companionship. Could your next best friend be a battery-powered confidant? The future’s knocking – with a silicone hand. 👋
